Tuesday, July 28, 2009
After a Stopover in Miami, HOME!
Hey everyone! We made it!!! Although delayed over 12 hours in Miami, we landed in Philly on Sunday morning around 10AM. We quickly picked up our luggage and headed outside to be greeted by Frank and Miguel, who immediately took us to church. Almost half of the team stayed for the 11 (kudos to Pastor Bryon for preaching a great "last minute" sermon) and were welcomed home by our church family. I even had a chance to greet the congregation (but I didn't tell any stories from our trip; I wanted to save that for our team serv
ice). Speaking of team service, we are officially ON for Sunday, August 2, 2009. So, if you want to hear all about the trip from team members - don't miss the 9 or the 11 at Kingsway.
ice). Speaking of team service, we are officially ON for Sunday, August 2, 2009. So, if you want to hear all about the trip from team members - don't miss the 9 or the 11 at Kingsway.Here are some of my pictures, posted for everyone's enjoyment:
Friday, July 24, 2009
Fun in the Sun at Lake Ontario
Hello Kingsway friends and family!
Today was our day off and we spent it at Atami Beach. When asked where Atami was (on the Pacific or Atlantic ocean), George Mickel replied, "I have no idea. We could be on Lake Ontario for all I know." That really made me laugh so I decided it would make a great title for tonight's post. Kim (George's wife) suggested that the reason for his gaffe was that he was hit in the back of the head with a BRANCHHHHHHHHHHHHH two days ago when we were in Puerto Rios. :)
We enjoyed the warm ocean, fun water slide, and the powerful tidal pools; all while surrounded by black beach and huts with hammocks hung in them (four in each). It was a great day at the beach, even though the current was EXTREMELY strong. Normally, we tell everyone that they can go into the ocean up to their knees. This morning, however, after being in the water for about an hour we decided just to make it off limits to everyone. It was too powerful and we didn't want to risk injury to any team member.
In a few moments, we will be attending our farewell service. They have one for every team. This is when the missionaries and the team we have worked with all week share with us the results of the ministry that we have done all week. Plus, they spend time thanking us and praying over us. Last year, we didn't know what to expect and we were simply overwhelmed with the gratitude shown to us. We think (and know) we have been so blessed and then the wonderful people who are a part of Kings Castle Ministries find a way to bless us even more.
We can't wait to share with you all that God has done this week - in and through us. We hope you will be at either the 9am or 11am service at Kingsway (see more on that below).
Please pray for our safety tomorrow as we travel. We leave the campground early (7:30am) because we are going to spend some time at the market (cheap, but good souvenirs) before we arrive at the airport at 11am. Our flight takes off from San Salvador at 2:05pm. We have a two hour layover in Miami and then we leave for Philadelphia at 8:40pm. We land at 11:24pm and anticipate being back at the church around 12:30-12:45am early Sunday morning. Special thanks to our van drivers (Frank & Tim) for picking us up so late at night! That's right, folks - if we aren't getting home until 1:00-1:30am and we will be in service just 7 hours later - surely you can join us too?!!??
Thanks for reading this week. I hope you've enjoyed the posts. I've enjoyed sharing all that has happened with you.
Blessings and see you Sunday morning,
Pastor Arlena
Today was our day off and we spent it at Atami Beach. When asked where Atami was (on the Pacific or Atlantic ocean), George Mickel replied, "I have no idea. We could be on Lake Ontario for all I know." That really made me laugh so I decided it would make a great title for tonight's post. Kim (George's wife) suggested that the reason for his gaffe was that he was hit in the back of the head with a BRANCHHHHHHHHHHHHH two days ago when we were in Puerto Rios. :)
We enjoyed the warm ocean, fun water slide, and the powerful tidal pools; all while surrounded by black beach and huts with hammocks hung in them (four in each). It was a great day at the beach, even though the current was EXTREMELY strong. Normally, we tell everyone that they can go into the ocean up to their knees. This morning, however, after being in the water for about an hour we decided just to make it off limits to everyone. It was too powerful and we didn't want to risk injury to any team member.
In a few moments, we will be attending our farewell service. They have one for every team. This is when the missionaries and the team we have worked with all week share with us the results of the ministry that we have done all week. Plus, they spend time thanking us and praying over us. Last year, we didn't know what to expect and we were simply overwhelmed with the gratitude shown to us. We think (and know) we have been so blessed and then the wonderful people who are a part of Kings Castle Ministries find a way to bless us even more.
We can't wait to share with you all that God has done this week - in and through us. We hope you will be at either the 9am or 11am service at Kingsway (see more on that below).
Please pray for our safety tomorrow as we travel. We leave the campground early (7:30am) because we are going to spend some time at the market (cheap, but good souvenirs) before we arrive at the airport at 11am. Our flight takes off from San Salvador at 2:05pm. We have a two hour layover in Miami and then we leave for Philadelphia at 8:40pm. We land at 11:24pm and anticipate being back at the church around 12:30-12:45am early Sunday morning. Special thanks to our van drivers (Frank & Tim) for picking us up so late at night! That's right, folks - if we aren't getting home until 1:00-1:30am and we will be in service just 7 hours later - surely you can join us too?!!??
Thanks for reading this week. I hope you've enjoyed the posts. I've enjoyed sharing all that has happened with you.
Blessings and see you Sunday morning,
Pastor Arlena
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Focus Topic: Safety
Focus Scripture: Psalm 91
Focus Team Members: Nikki Mickel, Angela Pacitti, Christine Ventrella
Prayer: Father God, You have surely sustained our team through this trip. I pray for safety as they travel home. Be with them as they begin and end their journey home. Place them on the right flights with the right pilots and be the hand that guides them safely home. Thank You for all that You have accomplished through this trip. Keep watch over Nikki, Angela, and Christine today. Be everything that they need today. Give them opportunities as they move through the airports to speak into the lives of people they meet. In Jesus’ Name, Amen!
Focus Scripture: Psalm 91
Focus Team Members: Nikki Mickel, Angela Pacitti, Christine Ventrella
Prayer: Father God, You have surely sustained our team through this trip. I pray for safety as they travel home. Be with them as they begin and end their journey home. Place them on the right flights with the right pilots and be the hand that guides them safely home. Thank You for all that You have accomplished through this trip. Keep watch over Nikki, Angela, and Christine today. Be everything that they need today. Give them opportunities as they move through the airports to speak into the lives of people they meet. In Jesus’ Name, Amen!
Friday, July 24, 2009
Focus Topic: Wisdom
Focus Scripture: James 1:5
Focus Team Members: Marco and Mical Ortiz
Prayer: Jesus, You say if anyone lacks wisdom, let him ask. I pray today that You would flood our team and its leaders with Your wisdom; that they would hear Your voice and follow it. I pray that You would grant them wisdom in every situation they face today. God, be with Marco and Mical today. Speak to each of them today in a new way. Allow them to see You and understand You in a way that they never have before. Use them to pour out Your love and wisdom on every person they meet. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Focus Scripture: James 1:5
Focus Team Members: Marco and Mical Ortiz
Prayer: Jesus, You say if anyone lacks wisdom, let him ask. I pray today that You would flood our team and its leaders with Your wisdom; that they would hear Your voice and follow it. I pray that You would grant them wisdom in every situation they face today. God, be with Marco and Mical today. Speak to each of them today in a new way. Allow them to see You and understand You in a way that they never have before. Use them to pour out Your love and wisdom on every person they meet. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
5 + 13
A late hello as I post this around 11:15pm EST. We've had a long day (13 hours) filled with programs (5 to be exact) but the Lord has been with us and we have been so very blessed.
We left at 8am this morning and spent the entire day in a nearby town called El Congo. Our first stop was a school that we visited last summer. We ministered to the 1st-4th graders. Then, we went to a preschool and shared an abbreviated program with some precious preschoolers. We ate lunch at a Texaco gas station (one of the nicest bathrooms I've seen in El Salvador) and once again made our way back to the school which was our first stop earlier in the day. This time, though, instead of 1st-4th graders, our audience consisted of 5th-9th graders. Pastor Julio asked our teens to once again do the drama "Everything." Many of us felt this was a divine appointment (our prayer focus for today) and we prayed passionately for these preteens to accept Christ. Not many of them asked for prayer, but we feel that seeds were planted that will one day yield a harvest of faith in Christ. Next, we trekked back to the preschool for a full length program with some rambunctious preschoolers. At the close of this program, Pastor Julio asked if we were up for one more program. I was pleased when every team member opted for another program instead of going immediately to our dinner destination of Pizza Hut.
This time, we traveled into a neighborhood of El Congo. We set up the sound equipment and went off in four different directions to knock on doors and invite people to see the program. Again, our students ministered through the drama "Everything" and we saw an amazing response to the altar call. We had a extended time of prayer and we saw so many people touched by the presence of the Lord. We stayed longer than we intended but the Lord's presence was so rich on that street corner, we just couldn't stop praying over the kids. We are all glad that we decided to add the fifth program of the day.
We ended the day with a treat - Pizza Hut. It was such a fond memory for many of our students who went on the trip last year that they couldn't stop talking about to everyone else. Our team leaders arranged for us to go and with everyone chipping in a few extra dollars, we were able to treat approximately 20 members of Pastor Julio's church: children, preteens, and teens who are part of the Kings Castle discipleship program. Going to Pizza Hut was a special memory for them as well so we were happy to do it!
Tomorrow is our fun day - a day at the beach. We've all been looking forward to it but are a little sad that the ministry part of our time here is over. This Sunday, when the team does both services at Kingsway, you'll get to hear how this week has impacted each of us. You won't want to miss the 9 or the 11 this Sunday, July 26!
Thanks so much for your prayers! We continue to enjoy good health and strength. We are definitely tired but refreshed in our souls because of all that God has done and is doing here in El Salvador and in each of us.
Blessings,
Pastor Arlena
We left at 8am this morning and spent the entire day in a nearby town called El Congo. Our first stop was a school that we visited last summer. We ministered to the 1st-4th graders. Then, we went to a preschool and shared an abbreviated program with some precious preschoolers. We ate lunch at a Texaco gas station (one of the nicest bathrooms I've seen in El Salvador) and once again made our way back to the school which was our first stop earlier in the day. This time, though, instead of 1st-4th graders, our audience consisted of 5th-9th graders. Pastor Julio asked our teens to once again do the drama "Everything." Many of us felt this was a divine appointment (our prayer focus for today) and we prayed passionately for these preteens to accept Christ. Not many of them asked for prayer, but we feel that seeds were planted that will one day yield a harvest of faith in Christ. Next, we trekked back to the preschool for a full length program with some rambunctious preschoolers. At the close of this program, Pastor Julio asked if we were up for one more program. I was pleased when every team member opted for another program instead of going immediately to our dinner destination of Pizza Hut.
This time, we traveled into a neighborhood of El Congo. We set up the sound equipment and went off in four different directions to knock on doors and invite people to see the program. Again, our students ministered through the drama "Everything" and we saw an amazing response to the altar call. We had a extended time of prayer and we saw so many people touched by the presence of the Lord. We stayed longer than we intended but the Lord's presence was so rich on that street corner, we just couldn't stop praying over the kids. We are all glad that we decided to add the fifth program of the day.
We ended the day with a treat - Pizza Hut. It was such a fond memory for many of our students who went on the trip last year that they couldn't stop talking about to everyone else. Our team leaders arranged for us to go and with everyone chipping in a few extra dollars, we were able to treat approximately 20 members of Pastor Julio's church: children, preteens, and teens who are part of the Kings Castle discipleship program. Going to Pizza Hut was a special memory for them as well so we were happy to do it!
Tomorrow is our fun day - a day at the beach. We've all been looking forward to it but are a little sad that the ministry part of our time here is over. This Sunday, when the team does both services at Kingsway, you'll get to hear how this week has impacted each of us. You won't want to miss the 9 or the 11 this Sunday, July 26!
Thanks so much for your prayers! We continue to enjoy good health and strength. We are definitely tired but refreshed in our souls because of all that God has done and is doing here in El Salvador and in each of us.
Blessings,
Pastor Arlena
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Focus Topic: Divine Appointments
Focus Scripture: Psalm 32:8
Focus Team Members: Michele Romaniello, Heather Todd
Prayer: God, Psalm 32:8 says, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye.” Please guide each team member with Your eye today. Allow them to see things only as You see them. Provide them situations and interactions that only You can supply. Be with Michele and Heather today. See what they need from You today and meet them in the way that only You can. Provide them with divine appointments that testify to Your power and love for the people of El Salvador. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Focus Scripture: Psalm 32:8
Focus Team Members: Michele Romaniello, Heather Todd
Prayer: God, Psalm 32:8 says, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye.” Please guide each team member with Your eye today. Allow them to see things only as You see them. Provide them situations and interactions that only You can supply. Be with Michele and Heather today. See what they need from You today and meet them in the way that only You can. Provide them with divine appointments that testify to Your power and love for the people of El Salvador. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
BRANCHHHHHHHHHHHH.............................
If you haven't guessed it already, the word for the day is BRANCH. This was not a random selection but a life-saving bellow uttered by any and all of our team at various times. Let me start at the beginning of our day:
We knew we were headed up to a nearby region called Puerto Rios. We knew that we were working with a church there. We knew we were doing programs (as we have done for the last two days). We knew we were distributing 150 bags of food (like we did yesterday). What WE DID NOT KNOW is.....
1. We would all be climbing into the back of a pick-up truck (or cattle truck, depending on your opinion). And, when I say all, I mean 18 team members, 2 interns, 1 pastor (Pastor Julio), 4 nationals, 150 bags of food (or 1500 pounds, depending on your opinion), a sound system, 2 coolers filled with our lunch, 2 coolers filled with water and gatorade, and 2 five gallon water jugs. Angela asked, "Is there a weight limit for this thing?"
2. We would be traveling (in the aforementioned cattle truck) up a steep incline (straight up a mountain), on roads that we aren't sure should be called roads. Wide, rocky, rut-filled foot path might be a more accurate description.
3. We would encounter large spiders and spider webs in the trees that hung over the aforementioned foot path.
4. We would, at times, not be able to ride standing up in the cattle truck because the incline was too steep and we would have to walk. Which wasn't so bad because all of us packed mountain climbing gear AND we are ALL in phenomenal shape (NOT!)
So, we come to number 5 of what we did not know:
5. Apparently, tree trimming is not a valued occupation here in El Salvador because many of the trees, on the side of (and over) the wide footpath that we drove up, had not been trimmed in this century so the branches hung over the road. Which, if inside a vehicle, isn't a problem. But, with 23 people standing upright (most of the time) in the back of the cattle truck, screaming the word, "BRANCHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!" (or as Nelson, one of our team leaders and a national would say, RANCHHHHHHHHHH) prevented the decapitation of many team members. Some got sense knocked into them because someone forgot to yell the word for the day.
On a more serious note: our day in Puerto Rios included doing a program near the church and then traveleing further up the mountain to a neighborhood and school. As is usual with this ministry, the gospel is preached and many children accepted Christ as their Lord and Savior. We enjoyed a special privilege at the school as we were allowed to pray over all of the teachers. After ministering at the school, we came back down the mountain to the church where we did another church service (our students presented the drama, "Everything" again) and passed out the food. Each of us were able to hand (5) bags of food to a family. All of us carry the food into the church and up the hill (assembly line style) to where the people were in line to receive it.
After the food distribution, we had our team devotion inside of the Puerto Rios church. Each team member shared reflections on the week so far. Many of the adults (Kim, Marco, & Diana) commented on how amazing our students are who are on the trip (Devon, Nicole, Allie, Christopher, Georgie, Nikki, Bri, Christine and Angela). They (the students) have shown such love for the children we meet; hugging them, high-fiveing them, holding them, and praying what I am sure are powerful prayers over them. I have to say that our whole team have shown great attitudes and a willingness to serve whenever asked. Marco and Mical are asked to translate at every turn and do it gladly. George and Rick have carried our sound system over hill and vale and back again without complaint. We aren't sure which of our capable and caring nurses has cried over the children more, Michele or Heather, but both have loved on each one they have met. I was impressed by Kim's mean soccer skills as upon our arrival in Puerto Rios, she jumped into a game that the kids were playing. I don't think we've met a child yet that Diana hasn't hugged. And, me, between praying over the kids we meet...well, I just keep counting....ever vigilant in making sure we leave with the same number of team members that we came with! :)
Of course, our nationals and interns (those who go with us everywhere and do everything we do) are such an inspiration to all of us - especially our students. They see how they serve quickly, readily, and with a smile at every turn, living before our eyes what it means to be a servant.
Tomorrow we head to another area for a full day of programs (our last day of ministry). Then, on Friday we are going to the beach for our day off. We are all healthy, safe, and having the time of our lives. Thanks so much for all of your prayers. We need them. Pray for strength and good health; we are trusting the Lord for both. We look forward to your comments - so don't be afraid to post!
We love and miss all of you! Thanks for reading.
Blessings,
Pastor Arlena
We knew we were headed up to a nearby region called Puerto Rios. We knew that we were working with a church there. We knew we were doing programs (as we have done for the last two days). We knew we were distributing 150 bags of food (like we did yesterday). What WE DID NOT KNOW is.....
1. We would all be climbing into the back of a pick-up truck (or cattle truck, depending on your opinion). And, when I say all, I mean 18 team members, 2 interns, 1 pastor (Pastor Julio), 4 nationals, 150 bags of food (or 1500 pounds, depending on your opinion), a sound system, 2 coolers filled with our lunch, 2 coolers filled with water and gatorade, and 2 five gallon water jugs. Angela asked, "Is there a weight limit for this thing?"
2. We would be traveling (in the aforementioned cattle truck) up a steep incline (straight up a mountain), on roads that we aren't sure should be called roads. Wide, rocky, rut-filled foot path might be a more accurate description.
3. We would encounter large spiders and spider webs in the trees that hung over the aforementioned foot path.
4. We would, at times, not be able to ride standing up in the cattle truck because the incline was too steep and we would have to walk. Which wasn't so bad because all of us packed mountain climbing gear AND we are ALL in phenomenal shape (NOT!)
So, we come to number 5 of what we did not know:
5. Apparently, tree trimming is not a valued occupation here in El Salvador because many of the trees, on the side of (and over) the wide footpath that we drove up, had not been trimmed in this century so the branches hung over the road. Which, if inside a vehicle, isn't a problem. But, with 23 people standing upright (most of the time) in the back of the cattle truck, screaming the word, "BRANCHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!" (or as Nelson, one of our team leaders and a national would say, RANCHHHHHHHHHH) prevented the decapitation of many team members. Some got sense knocked into them because someone forgot to yell the word for the day.
On a more serious note: our day in Puerto Rios included doing a program near the church and then traveleing further up the mountain to a neighborhood and school. As is usual with this ministry, the gospel is preached and many children accepted Christ as their Lord and Savior. We enjoyed a special privilege at the school as we were allowed to pray over all of the teachers. After ministering at the school, we came back down the mountain to the church where we did another church service (our students presented the drama, "Everything" again) and passed out the food. Each of us were able to hand (5) bags of food to a family. All of us carry the food into the church and up the hill (assembly line style) to where the people were in line to receive it.
After the food distribution, we had our team devotion inside of the Puerto Rios church. Each team member shared reflections on the week so far. Many of the adults (Kim, Marco, & Diana) commented on how amazing our students are who are on the trip (Devon, Nicole, Allie, Christopher, Georgie, Nikki, Bri, Christine and Angela). They (the students) have shown such love for the children we meet; hugging them, high-fiveing them, holding them, and praying what I am sure are powerful prayers over them. I have to say that our whole team have shown great attitudes and a willingness to serve whenever asked. Marco and Mical are asked to translate at every turn and do it gladly. George and Rick have carried our sound system over hill and vale and back again without complaint. We aren't sure which of our capable and caring nurses has cried over the children more, Michele or Heather, but both have loved on each one they have met. I was impressed by Kim's mean soccer skills as upon our arrival in Puerto Rios, she jumped into a game that the kids were playing. I don't think we've met a child yet that Diana hasn't hugged. And, me, between praying over the kids we meet...well, I just keep counting....ever vigilant in making sure we leave with the same number of team members that we came with! :)
Of course, our nationals and interns (those who go with us everywhere and do everything we do) are such an inspiration to all of us - especially our students. They see how they serve quickly, readily, and with a smile at every turn, living before our eyes what it means to be a servant.
Tomorrow we head to another area for a full day of programs (our last day of ministry). Then, on Friday we are going to the beach for our day off. We are all healthy, safe, and having the time of our lives. Thanks so much for all of your prayers. We need them. Pray for strength and good health; we are trusting the Lord for both. We look forward to your comments - so don't be afraid to post!
We love and miss all of you! Thanks for reading.
Blessings,
Pastor Arlena
Cold Dark Showers
Yes, ladies and gentlemen, we haven't had hot water since we arrived; plus, the lights in the bathroom haven't worked either. BUT, we are all well.
Today was a powerful day of programs. I wish I could describe for everyone the sense of Christ's presence and love that fills the space where the team ministers. To see each of our team hold and hug a child; to put all of God's love into that hug. Words fail me.
Late this afternoon, we did our first food distribution. Before we gave out the food, Pastor Julio allowed our students to do a skit set to music called, "Everything." You could hear a pin drop as Bri played a girl tempted by men (Herbert), money (Nicole), alcohol (Odie), anorexia (Heather), and cutting (Allie). Finally, pushed to suicide she is rescued by Jesus (George). What was special about this skirt was our students asked if we could do it and Pastor Julio approved. Hopefully on Sunday, when we minister in both services, I pray that the same willingness to be used by God is evident.
After the program (did I mention Marco got to share his testimony?) we each handed out bags of food. I can only share from my heart but it was a humbling experience handing food to these beautiful, warm, and generous people.
Tomorrow, we trek straight up the mountain for a full day of programs/ministry and giving out more food. We feel your support and your prayers giving us strength and effectiveness.
Talk to you tomorrow!
Love and blessings,
Pastor Arlena
Today was a powerful day of programs. I wish I could describe for everyone the sense of Christ's presence and love that fills the space where the team ministers. To see each of our team hold and hug a child; to put all of God's love into that hug. Words fail me.
Late this afternoon, we did our first food distribution. Before we gave out the food, Pastor Julio allowed our students to do a skit set to music called, "Everything." You could hear a pin drop as Bri played a girl tempted by men (Herbert), money (Nicole), alcohol (Odie), anorexia (Heather), and cutting (Allie). Finally, pushed to suicide she is rescued by Jesus (George). What was special about this skirt was our students asked if we could do it and Pastor Julio approved. Hopefully on Sunday, when we minister in both services, I pray that the same willingness to be used by God is evident.
After the program (did I mention Marco got to share his testimony?) we each handed out bags of food. I can only share from my heart but it was a humbling experience handing food to these beautiful, warm, and generous people.
Tomorrow, we trek straight up the mountain for a full day of programs/ministry and giving out more food. We feel your support and your prayers giving us strength and effectiveness.
Talk to you tomorrow!
Love and blessings,
Pastor Arlena
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Focus Topic: Unity/Peace
Focus Scripture: Philippians 4:6-8, Isaiah 54:17
Focus Team Members: George & Kim Mickel, Rick Pacitti
Prayer: Father God, I come to You today on behalf of our missions team. You say in your Word that praying brings Peace. I pray today that each team member will seek You today more than ever before and, as they do, that You would bring them a peace and unity that will bind them together. I stand on your Word that says that “no weapon turned against you will succeed.” Jesus, put a stop to every weapon Satan would try to send against this team. I lift George, Kim and Rick to You today, asking that You would touch them in a special way. Give them peace and allow them to be examples of Unity within the team. In Jesus’ Name, Amen!
Focus Scripture: Philippians 4:6-8, Isaiah 54:17
Focus Team Members: George & Kim Mickel, Rick Pacitti
Prayer: Father God, I come to You today on behalf of our missions team. You say in your Word that praying brings Peace. I pray today that each team member will seek You today more than ever before and, as they do, that You would bring them a peace and unity that will bind them together. I stand on your Word that says that “no weapon turned against you will succeed.” Jesus, put a stop to every weapon Satan would try to send against this team. I lift George, Kim and Rick to You today, asking that You would touch them in a special way. Give them peace and allow them to be examples of Unity within the team. In Jesus’ Name, Amen!
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Focus Topic: Health
Focus Scripture: Isaiah 53:5
Focus Team Members: Christopher Mickel, Georgie Mickel
Prayer: Jesus, you are the Great Healer. As you walked on the earth, died on the cross, and were resurrected, you were, are and always will be the greatest example of healing. I pray that today and throughout this trip, you would be the Great Healer for our team members and those they encounter. Touch Christopher and Georgie in a special way today. Meet each of their needs that they have today, God. Strengthen them and empower them to be vessels of your power today and throughout the rest of this trip. In Jesus’ Name, Amen!
Focus Scripture: Isaiah 53:5
Focus Team Members: Christopher Mickel, Georgie Mickel
Prayer: Jesus, you are the Great Healer. As you walked on the earth, died on the cross, and were resurrected, you were, are and always will be the greatest example of healing. I pray that today and throughout this trip, you would be the Great Healer for our team members and those they encounter. Touch Christopher and Georgie in a special way today. Meet each of their needs that they have today, God. Strengthen them and empower them to be vessels of your power today and throughout the rest of this trip. In Jesus’ Name, Amen!
Monday, July 20, 2009
"Man, This Is Really Messing Me Up!"
That's the quote of the day - by Rick Pacitti. We've had a long day of ministry (which I will tell you about in a few minutes) but I wanted to tell you about yesterday.
After our training in the morning, we had the afternoon to relax. We spent most of it at the lake. The Kings Castle Ministry campground sits on a huge lake (formed by a volcano that erupted over 2,000 years ago). The ministry has a dock and a rather infamous trapeze that you can swing off of and into the lake (it's about a 20 ft drop). It was a gorgeous day and many of our team took a real leap of faith and jumped into the water via the trapeze. I probably should not name names BUT....Rick was the first to walk right up to the edge of the dock and jump in. Many others - Kim, Angela, Georgie, Michele, Heather, Chris, Nikki, Christine, and Marco - all jumped (some several times). Others of us were too chicken or too wise (depending on your point of view) to jump.
Last night, after dinner, we made our trek up to the Prayer Fortress. Since 1998, prayer has been lifted up from the prayer fortress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year. It is a sacred place and we sensed the Lord's presence immediately when we stepped on the grounds. We had a powerful time of corporate prayer and then, prayer for one another - in preparation for our ministry this week. We know that we cannot minister in our own strength but only in the anointing and power of the Lord.
This morning, we got up and ate breakfast at 6:30am sharp and headed off to our first ministry stop at 8am. The ministry of Kings Castle is based on "spectacle evangelism;" the concept that we do dramas and dances to create a spectacle (which, by the way, we are AMAZING at) so that crowds will come, laugh, sense the love of Christ, and hear the gospel. When we arrive in a neighborhood, we walk around inviting people to the "la programma." Once a crowd gathers, all of us do a couple of dances; then, half of us stay in the program to do more skits and dances and half of us go onto the bus to pray. After the gospel is presented and the audience is asked if they want to accept Christ, all of us come around the children to pray.
The source of the quote for today came after our first program of the day when we were asked to pick up one child, hold them and love on them, and pray over them. We've been told by those who live here that many children experience abuse and violence in the home. So, any opportunity that we have to smile, hug, and play with them is really an expression of Christ's love for them. Many of the team were so overwhelmed by the love of God for these children, they simply wept as they prayed. And, when we got back on the bus, many of us were wiping tears from our cheeks. Rick said, "Man, this is really messing me up!"
We did a total of three programs in the morning; ate lunch and then did a quick two song program for the kids who are a part of the feeding program. Next, we worked in the warehouse all afternoon packing 300 bags of food that we are distributing tomorrow and Wednesday. This is the food that many of YOU helped purchase. Every family will receive five pounds of beans, five pounds of rice, two pounds of corn flour, and a bag of oil. THANK YOU everyone for your generosity! We can't wait to show this practical expression of God's love to the families in this community around the lake.
We enjoyed a 45 minute break and then, we went off to church to minister another program. We had a great experience worshiping the Lord with fellow believers and I (Pastor Arlena) was asked to greet the people on behalf of Kingsway (so you said hello to a wonderful church body here in El Salvador).
Tomorrow is a full day of programs and then the food distribution at 4pm (6pm EST). Continue to keep us in your prayers. We certainly need them. We are tired but SO glad that we have this opportunity to minister God's grace, love and peace to everyone we meet.
A word about our blog posts and pictures: my (Pastor Arlena) ability to post text is somewhat limited so the "Dustin, We Need You!" post was put up by Jan, via an email from Marco's phone. Marco is uploading pictures to his facebook page and Pastor Bryon is copying them and posting them on the blog. That's about the best way we can do it! Thanks for your patience. But, feel free to leave a comment. I check the blog frequently throughout the day so if you want to say hello to anyone - feel free!
We love and miss all of you but we're busy being messed up by God! More tomorrow!!!
Blessings,
Pastor Arlena
After our training in the morning, we had the afternoon to relax. We spent most of it at the lake. The Kings Castle Ministry campground sits on a huge lake (formed by a volcano that erupted over 2,000 years ago). The ministry has a dock and a rather infamous trapeze that you can swing off of and into the lake (it's about a 20 ft drop). It was a gorgeous day and many of our team took a real leap of faith and jumped into the water via the trapeze. I probably should not name names BUT....Rick was the first to walk right up to the edge of the dock and jump in. Many others - Kim, Angela, Georgie, Michele, Heather, Chris, Nikki, Christine, and Marco - all jumped (some several times). Others of us were too chicken or too wise (depending on your point of view) to jump.
Last night, after dinner, we made our trek up to the Prayer Fortress. Since 1998, prayer has been lifted up from the prayer fortress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year. It is a sacred place and we sensed the Lord's presence immediately when we stepped on the grounds. We had a powerful time of corporate prayer and then, prayer for one another - in preparation for our ministry this week. We know that we cannot minister in our own strength but only in the anointing and power of the Lord.
This morning, we got up and ate breakfast at 6:30am sharp and headed off to our first ministry stop at 8am. The ministry of Kings Castle is based on "spectacle evangelism;" the concept that we do dramas and dances to create a spectacle (which, by the way, we are AMAZING at) so that crowds will come, laugh, sense the love of Christ, and hear the gospel. When we arrive in a neighborhood, we walk around inviting people to the "la programma." Once a crowd gathers, all of us do a couple of dances; then, half of us stay in the program to do more skits and dances and half of us go onto the bus to pray. After the gospel is presented and the audience is asked if they want to accept Christ, all of us come around the children to pray.
The source of the quote for today came after our first program of the day when we were asked to pick up one child, hold them and love on them, and pray over them. We've been told by those who live here that many children experience abuse and violence in the home. So, any opportunity that we have to smile, hug, and play with them is really an expression of Christ's love for them. Many of the team were so overwhelmed by the love of God for these children, they simply wept as they prayed. And, when we got back on the bus, many of us were wiping tears from our cheeks. Rick said, "Man, this is really messing me up!"
We did a total of three programs in the morning; ate lunch and then did a quick two song program for the kids who are a part of the feeding program. Next, we worked in the warehouse all afternoon packing 300 bags of food that we are distributing tomorrow and Wednesday. This is the food that many of YOU helped purchase. Every family will receive five pounds of beans, five pounds of rice, two pounds of corn flour, and a bag of oil. THANK YOU everyone for your generosity! We can't wait to show this practical expression of God's love to the families in this community around the lake.
We enjoyed a 45 minute break and then, we went off to church to minister another program. We had a great experience worshiping the Lord with fellow believers and I (Pastor Arlena) was asked to greet the people on behalf of Kingsway (so you said hello to a wonderful church body here in El Salvador).
Tomorrow is a full day of programs and then the food distribution at 4pm (6pm EST). Continue to keep us in your prayers. We certainly need them. We are tired but SO glad that we have this opportunity to minister God's grace, love and peace to everyone we meet.
A word about our blog posts and pictures: my (Pastor Arlena) ability to post text is somewhat limited so the "Dustin, We Need You!" post was put up by Jan, via an email from Marco's phone. Marco is uploading pictures to his facebook page and Pastor Bryon is copying them and posting them on the blog. That's about the best way we can do it! Thanks for your patience. But, feel free to leave a comment. I check the blog frequently throughout the day so if you want to say hello to anyone - feel free!
We love and miss all of you but we're busy being messed up by God! More tomorrow!!!
Blessings,
Pastor Arlena
Dustin, We Need You!
Sorry for delay; mucho problems with Internet. Anyway, we spent all morning learning four dances to music (which we will definitely debut at Kingsway next Sunday) and three skits. Diana and Heather are doctors George and Chris are statues. Michele and Kim play Mary. Devon is Jesus, multiple times. Nikki, Mical, Christine, and Angela are part of the crowd that crucifies Jesus. Allie, Nicole and Bri play a girl who gives her heart to Jesus while George plays the boy who treats that same girls heart poorly. Pastor Arlena plays a cop who arrests Rick, an abusive dad (which couldn't be further from the truth). Finally, Georgie is a rock star and Marco plays a funny drunk. We've had a full day to be sure!
If you want to see some pictures, check out Marco Ortiz' facebook. I will try to get up pics when possible.
Tonight, we head to the prayer fortress for a powerful time of prayer. Tomorrow, we head out to minister all we have learned to the children. Thanks for your prayers. We feel them.
Blessings, Pastor Arlena
If you want to see some pictures, check out Marco Ortiz' facebook. I will try to get up pics when possible.
Tonight, we head to the prayer fortress for a powerful time of prayer. Tomorrow, we head out to minister all we have learned to the children. Thanks for your prayers. We feel them.
Blessings, Pastor Arlena
Monday, July 20, 2009
Focus Topic: Endurance
Focus Scripture: 2 Corinthians 12:8-10
Focus Team Members: Diana Franks, Allie Mickel
Prayer: Your Grace is sufficient, God! I believe that today. God, help each team member feel your strength being made perfect in his or her weakness. Allow each person to delight in his or her weakness, trusting only in your strength. I lift up Diana and Allie to you today, entrusting them into your hands. Protect them and safeguard them as they move through their day and bless them in Jesus Name, Amen!
Focus Scripture: 2 Corinthians 12:8-10
Focus Team Members: Diana Franks, Allie Mickel
Prayer: Your Grace is sufficient, God! I believe that today. God, help each team member feel your strength being made perfect in his or her weakness. Allow each person to delight in his or her weakness, trusting only in your strength. I lift up Diana and Allie to you today, entrusting them into your hands. Protect them and safeguard them as they move through their day and bless them in Jesus Name, Amen!
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Focus Topic: Salvation for Souls
Focus Scripture: John 3:16-17
Focus Team Members: Nicole DiFelice, Briana Franks
Prayer: God, Thank you for sending Jesus, Your Son, so that we may have eternal life. I pray that you would cause our team to minister salvation to those to whom you have sent them. Allow the message of John 3:16 to flow freely from our team members in their words and in their service. Place people in their paths who need to hear about you. Be with Nicole and Briana today. Strengthen them as they come and as they go. Allow them to minister your salvation to everyone they encounter today. In Jesus’ Name, Amen!
Focus Scripture: John 3:16-17
Focus Team Members: Nicole DiFelice, Briana Franks
Prayer: God, Thank you for sending Jesus, Your Son, so that we may have eternal life. I pray that you would cause our team to minister salvation to those to whom you have sent them. Allow the message of John 3:16 to flow freely from our team members in their words and in their service. Place people in their paths who need to hear about you. Be with Nicole and Briana today. Strengthen them as they come and as they go. Allow them to minister your salvation to everyone they encounter today. In Jesus’ Name, Amen!
Saturday, July 18, 2009
A Long but Safe Travel Day
Hello from El Salvador!
After a llooooooonnnnnnnnngggggggggg travel day, we arrived at the King's Castle campground around 4pm (6pm EST). We are all very tired (some have been up for over 36 hours straight) but safe and sound. Our flights ran smoothly and all of our luggage arrived on the same plane that we did (always a bonus!)
Tomorrow will be a full day as we begin our ministry training. We will be learning dances, skits, and dramas that we will use to minister in neighborhoods all around the region where we are staying. Last year, our training was really a four hour long lesson in humility as we discovered just how little rhythm and coordination we had. BUT, we are up for whatever we are asked to do while here in El Salvador and we believe God will somehow use our efforts for His glory.
Sorry we don't have any pictures but the Internet connection is spotty at best. We have the ability to upload text but no photos. I promise to get pictures up as quickly as I can.
Thanks so much for all of your prayers. We sure can feel them! Keep them up. I should have a much more entertaining post tomorrow night after our training session (just picture me, George, Kim, & Rick all trying to dance).
Love to all of you! Blessings,
Pastor Arlena :)
After a llooooooonnnnnnnnngggggggggg travel day, we arrived at the King's Castle campground around 4pm (6pm EST). We are all very tired (some have been up for over 36 hours straight) but safe and sound. Our flights ran smoothly and all of our luggage arrived on the same plane that we did (always a bonus!)
Tomorrow will be a full day as we begin our ministry training. We will be learning dances, skits, and dramas that we will use to minister in neighborhoods all around the region where we are staying. Last year, our training was really a four hour long lesson in humility as we discovered just how little rhythm and coordination we had. BUT, we are up for whatever we are asked to do while here in El Salvador and we believe God will somehow use our efforts for His glory.
Sorry we don't have any pictures but the Internet connection is spotty at best. We have the ability to upload text but no photos. I promise to get pictures up as quickly as I can.
Thanks so much for all of your prayers. We sure can feel them! Keep them up. I should have a much more entertaining post tomorrow night after our training session (just picture me, George, Kim, & Rick all trying to dance).
Love to all of you! Blessings,
Pastor Arlena :)
Friday, July 17, 2009
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Focus Topic: Protection
Focus Scripture: Psalm 91
Focus Team Members:
Prayer: Father God, I come to you in the Name of Jesus, asking you to cover the entire team with Your protection. I pray that you would command your angels concerning our team, to guard them in all their ways. I lift up to you specifically
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
We're Leaving on a Jet Plane
Hello everyone! Welcome to our first 2009 trip post!
This Saturday, July 18, 2009, 18 people from Kingsway Church will depart from Philadelphia International Airport at 6:10am (yep, we are leaving that early) to begin our missions week in El Salvador. About (9) of us have been there before; the other (9) are all first-timers. We are all excited, anxious, expectant, and a host of other feelings.
Thanks so much to our Kingsway family (and many others) who helped us make this trip. We couldn't have raised over $24,000 to go without your faithful and generous support. We hope that you enjoy reading about our adventures over the next week. We are believing God to make a difference in our own lives, even as we strive to make a difference in the lives of others. Pray with us that families will be blessed as we distribute food, children will come to know Jesus as we minister in neighborhoods and schools, and many will experience the compassion of Christ as two members of our team serve in the medical clinic.
My next post will be from El Salvador!
Pastor Arlena :)
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